CBD Isn’t Marijuana – Why It’s Safe & Healthy for Dogs and Cats

Hemp and marijuana are related in much the same way dogs are related to wolves. Both plants are varieties of the species Cannabis sativa, just as both animals are sub-species of Canis lupus. Domestic dogs may share some similarities with wolves, but as you know, they also have many vital differences!

Similarly, when it comes to important aspects such as the usage and chemical content of hemp and marijuana, the difference is night and day.

Hemp and marijuana look very different.

Tall, sturdy hemp plants are one of the oldest domestic crops, grown by early civilizations to make food, oil and textiles. The bamboo-like shoots can grow up to 15 feet in height. Conversely, marijuana plants tend to grow low to the ground and spread out in a bush-like pattern rather than a tall stalk.

Even the portion of the plant utilized is different. Growers cultivate hemp for its stalks and seeds, but harvest marijuana for its leaves and flowers.

The THC Content is dramatically different between the two plants.

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found within cannabis plants, the most controversial of which is THC. The elevated levels of THC in marijuana are responsible for its signature “high”. For this reason, marijuana is selectively bred to contain higher levels of THC, while hemp naturally has very little.

For comparison, a study conducted by Charas Scientific, a private lab in Denver, Colorado, found that recreational marijuana contains up to 30% THC. The hemp used to create products for humans and animals contains a maximum legal amount of just 0.3% THC. (It should be noted however, that most veterinarians recommend only using a 100% THC free CBD hemp product for your dog, such as THC-freeCannanine)

Hemp is low in THC, but high in CBD.

Both hemp and marijuana contain another important cannabinoid called CBD which help alleviate several medical conditions. Hemp produces more CBD than marijuana, making it the preferred choice for alleviating symptoms of epilepsy, anxiety, chronic pain, and more.

Unlike THC, CBD cannot get you or your dog high. Since it is a holistic treatment rather than a pharmaceutical, there is little-to-no risk of overdose and the potential side effects are minimal. Veterinarian, Dr. Michael Petty writes:

“Most pharmaceuticals only stimulate upregulation or downregulation, making it possible to move body systems out of their normal or homeostatic state. Because CBD works toward homeostasis, it doesn’t do this, making unwanted side effects rare and giving CBD a good safety profile.” – Veterinary News

CBD oil from hemp is legal in all 50 states.

Since CBD oil from hemp contains no more than 0.3% THC, it is legal across the United States. Oils made using marijuana, however, still face pushback in many states due to the potential risks associated with higher levels of THC.

Why is hemp beneficial for my dog?

The CBD in hemp and the THC in marijuana act on different pathways of the body, yet they have many of the same medicinal benefits. According to a 2013 review published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, CBD has the following medical properties:

Reduces nausea and vomiting

Suppresses seizure activity

Acts as an anti-inflammatory

Alleviates pain and pain-related disorders

Fights anxiety and depression

Acts as a powerful antioxidant

Best of all, with CBD oil derived from hemp, you do not have to worry about your dog getting high, overdosing, or experiencing the serious side effects of THC.

Get Our Free CBD for Dogs Buying Guide: 8 Things You Must Know Before Using

CBD is an exciting and confusing topic. Make sure you understand how to choose and use a CBD product wisely.

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How to choose the right CBD oil for your dog

Unfortunately, not all CBD oils for dogs are created equal. When it comes to hemp and marijuana products, you should always choose a CBD oil derived from hemp for your dog! Not only are they safer, these oils are far richer in healing CBD because they are made from hemp.

Your pup deserves the best, and that means a CBD product made from organically grown Colorado hemp like Cannanine™ Organic CBD Oil. Cannanine is non-GMO and free from heavy metals and bacteria. Because it is formulated specifically for dogs and cats, every trace of THC has been removed to ensure the safest, most effective product for your pet.

The Food and Drug Administration have not evaluated these statements. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.